Originally posted by: dr150
Regarding a laser vs. metal cutting the eye flap, two highly reputed vision docs from top med schools and with star clients have differing opinions.
One says laser cuts make for less complications regarding halos, etc. He says out of 500 patients doing this new procedure, he's had NO problems.
The other doc says that laser flap cutting device is unproven and one model of the machine has been recalled by the FDA. He says lasers can cauterize and complicate an even cut depending on the shape of the eyeball. According to him, the detractors outweigh the benefits to this super new unproven technology.
Both, however say that metal cuts are fine for most candidates and that laser flap cutting is just an option that is just more expensive.
This has me concerned as I want to do Lasik with NO complications. However, if two TOP docs can't see "eye-to-eye" on this cutting technique, well that doesn't bode well with me going about a procedure that is so damn delicate.....and expensive!
unfortunately, there's no lasik procedure with NO complications guaranteed, currently anyway...theres always a risk.
the intralase has been proven with studies to be more accurate with cutting flaps (within 30 microns vs. 70 with blade...or somewhere around there, can't remember exactly), which is why it can create a much thinner flap (100 microns) vs. blade (180 microns). however, being the newer procedure, it takes a bit of playing with the energy and settings before getting better results. at the laser center i was at, it took quite awhile before getting a nice balance of settings to minimize swelling and collateral thermal tissue involvement when using intralase.
halos will depend on a few things...
1. how large your pupils are at night (scotopic)
2. how large a treatment zone is needed (based on rx)
3. how large a treatment zone can be made (depends on brand of laser)
4. technology of laser (older broadbeam vs. newer flying spot)...newer ones create a smooth blend at the treatment edge to minimize how abrupt the transition from treated area to non treated area, thus make it less noticeable.
5. how much swelling/edema results from the procedure (everyone is a little different...some react more than others)
if you have large pupils and a high rx, chances are good that you may experience halos of some sort.
over time, people adapt a little and it may be less noticeable..
if there is alot of swelling/edema from the procedure, it causes light to be scattered more and will result in mild starburst or halos...which will resolve mostly when the eye heals.
so halos may improve completely, or may never completely go away depending on what it is due to.